Were you informed that you had to get root canal therapy in Merrimack because of a painful toothache? Most people find this treatment alarming, but getting rid of the discomfort is top priority. Luckily, unlike what the myths say, this procedure isn’t all that bad, and it can significantly improve your dental health in the long run! Keep reading to find out exactly what a root canal is and what you can expect from the treatment.
What Is a Root Canal?
Also known as endodontic therapy, a root canal is a dental procedure that treats the inside of the tooth. While fillings deal with the outer portion of your tooth, sometimes a cavity can go further into the dental pulp—the center of each tooth. When this happens, only a root canal can remove the infection and keep it from spreading to the root and other parts of the body.
When is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Often times if your tooth is cracked or damaged enough to cause a severe toothache, you most likely will require an emergency root canal to save it. Since the inner portion of the tooth is where living tissues are—like blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerve endings—this is a dangerous place for a cavity or infection. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss. Root canal therapy can ensure your discomfort goes away and you won’t lose your teeth.
The Root Canal Procedure
Unlike fillings, which simply remove decay and fill up the exposed area, a root canal requires several more measures. The stages of root canal therapy involve the following steps:
1: Your dentist will apply an anesthetic to numb your tooth and make sure you don’t feel any uncomfortable sensations.
2: The damaged inner living tissues are removed from within your tooth through a small hole.
3: Your dentist will sterilize and smooth out the inner portion so that no signs of infection stay.
4: Afterwards, your tooth will be filled with dental cement and gutta percha—a rubbery substance—to replace the inner structure.
5: Finally, a dental filling or crown is added for the finishing touch.
Sometimes root canal treatments can take two appointments depending on the severity of the damage, but your dentist will make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. Once completed, you can rest assured that your smile is safe and healthy again!
About the Practice
At Dental Designs of New England, patients can expect modern and relaxing dental services. Using state-of-the-art equipment, they provide an assortment of treatments from regular cleanings to emergency dentistry. If you want to know more about root canal therapy and the benefits, visit their website or call (603) 429-2199.
